Changing narratives in and about Africa

This report by the Institute for Security Studies examines the transformation of narratives regarding Africa, moving from colonial-era stereotypes of poverty and conflict toward a more nuanced portrayal of the continent as a hub of innovation, cultural influence, and geopolitical agency.

• The narrative of Africa is shifting from negative stereotypes of poverty, conflict, and disease toward a more diverse representation. This change is driven by African journalists, filmmakers, writers, and artists who are reframing the continent as one of "rich cultures, vibrant economies and resilient communities".
• Technological and cultural movements are accelerating the shift in perception. Digital platforms have democratised storytelling by allowing creators to bypass Western media filters, while Afrofuturism and a resurgence of Pan-Africanism provide counter-narratives that celebrate African identity and future potential.
• Economic evolution, particularly the emergence of tech hubs in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, is changing the global view of Africa from a region of dependency to one of entrepreneurship and innovation. This shift is attracting more foreign investment in industry, technology, and infrastructure, which enhances the continent's strategic autonomy.
• The evolving narrative is translating into increased geopolitical leverage. African leaders are asserting themselves more confidently in multilateral forums and institutions such as the G20, BRICS, and the African Union, advocating for global trade reform, peacekeeping, and climate change.
• Internally, a more empowered self-perception is fostering continental unity and cooperation. This is exemplified by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to establish a single market for services and goods across the continent.

APA

Cilliers, J. (2026). Changing narratives in and about Africa. Institute for Security Studies. https://futures.issafrica.org/thematic/guide.pdf?thematic=01-africas-current-path&topic=13-changing-narratives

Chicago

Cilliers, Jakkie. Changing narratives in and about Africa. Institute for Security Studies, 2026. https://futures.issafrica.org/thematic/guide.pdf?thematic=01-africas-current-path&topic=13-changing-narratives.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |last1=Cilliers |first1=Jakkie |title=Changing narratives in and about Africa |publisher=Institute for Security Studies |date=29 March 2026 |url=https://futures.issafrica.org/thematic/guide.pdf?thematic=01-africas-current-path&topic=13-changing-narratives |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{cilliers2026changing, author = {Cilliers, Jakkie}, title = {{Changing narratives in and about Africa}}, institution = {Institute for Security Studies}, year = {2026}, month = mar, url = {https://futures.issafrica.org/thematic/guide.pdf?thematic=01-africas-current-path&topic=13-changing-narratives}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }